People in the New River Valley spent year giving back

From college students volunteering during their spring break to elementary students stepping up to the plate to help others in need, 2009 was filled with good people and good stories in the New River Valley.

In March, several boston college students visited Barren Springs. Instead of partying, they spent their spring break volunteering at the old fire department.

In May, a special project in honor of Ryan “Stack” Clark became a reality. The Virginia Tech student and Marching Virginians member was killed in the April 16, 2007 shootings. Even in the rain, his former band-mates teamed up with the town of Blacksburg and community housing partners to build a home in his honor.

Then, in September, Sure Foundation Christian Fellowship in Radford hosted a free luncheon for its 2nd annual First Responders Appreciation Day. Dozens of police officers, firefighters and EMT’s attended the event. The church also gave the first responders gift certificates to local restaurants.

There are only a few days left in 2009, but if this year was any indication, I’m sure we’ll see even more people in the New River Valley giving back next year.